Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, yet it is also one of the most preventable. With Skin Cancer Awareness Month taking place each May, employers have a timely opportunity to raise awareness, encourage early detection, and protect their workforce – particularly those exposed to outdoor conditions.
Why Skin Cancer Awareness Month matters
Skin Cancer Awareness Month, promoted by organisations such as Macmillan Cancer Support, plays a critical role in highlighting prevention and early diagnosis. The campaign emphasises that most skin cancers are linked to ultraviolet (UV) exposure – often from the sun – and that simple protective behaviours can significantly reduce risk.
Crucially, research suggests that the majority of skin cancer cases are preventable, reinforcing the importance of awareness and behavioural change.
For employers, May is an ideal time to:
- Reinforce health and safety messaging and safe working in the sun guidance ahead of the summer
- Review workplace policies for outdoor work
- Promote a culture of proactive health monitoring
Skin cancer – types and case numbers
Skin cancer is grouped as non-melanoma and melanoma. Melanoma is much less common but much more dangerous and can develop anywhere on the skin not just through existing moles. Whereas non-melanoma appears most frequently where the skin is exposed to the sun most often such as someone’s head, neck, lips, hands and ears. It can also affect any previous scars, ulcers and burns that can’t heal.
As the numbers suggest, skin cancer is a significant and growing concern across the UK:
- Around 156,000 cases of non-melanoma skin cancer are diagnosed each year, making it the most common cancer type
- Melanoma is the 5th most common cancer in the UK
- There are approximately 21,800 new melanoma cases annually
- Incidence rates have been rising over recent decades, particularly due to increased UV exposure
How to spot the symptoms – and what to do
Early detection is vital. Skin cancer is often visible and can be identified through changes in the skin. However, some skin symptoms may be less obvious to spot – such as for people with black or brown skin.
Key warning signs include:
- A new mole or growth
- A mole that changes in size, shape, or colour
- A mole that itches, bleeds, or becomes crusty
- Any unusual patch of skin that does not heal
Melanoma, the more serious form, often follows the “ABCDE” rule:
- Asymmetry
- Border irregularity
- Colour variation
- Diameter (larger than 6mm)
- Evolving (changing over time)
If any of these symptoms are noticed, you should:
- Contact your GP promptly
- Avoid self-diagnosis or delay
- Follow up if symptoms persist or worsen
- Talk to your line manager
Remember – early diagnosis significantly improves outcomes and survival rates.
What employers need to know – and do
Employers have both a legal and moral responsibility to protect employees from workplace risks – including sun exposure. The following actions are aimed at protecting workers as well as embedding awareness of skin cancer and associated risks.
1: Implement Protective Measures
- Include sun exposure in health and safety risk assessments – as outdoor workers (e.g. construction, agriculture, utilities) face higher UV exposure.
- Identify high-risk roles and environments
- Provide shaded areas where possible
- Adjust working hours to avoid peak UV times (11am–3pm)
- Supply protective clothing (long sleeves, hats, UV-rated PPE)
- Encourage or provide high-factor sunscreen (SPF 30+)
2: Training and Awareness
- Educate employees on the risks of UV exposure
- Promote regular skin checks
- Use internal campaigns during May to reinforce messaging
- Include sun safety in wellbeing and health policies
- Align with broader workplace wellbeing strategies
3: Occupational Health Support
- Offer access to occupational health services
- Encourage early reporting of skin concerns
- Support employees attending medical appointments
How employees can work safely and reduce risk
Employees also play a key role in protecting their own health. In addition to the steps we’ve mentioned below, please read the Cordell Health blog ‘Working Safely During Hot Weather’.
Practical steps include:
- Apply sunscreen regularly, especially during prolonged outdoor work
- Wear protective clothing, including hats and sunglasses
- Take breaks in the shade whenever possible
- Stay hydrated, particularly in hot weather
- Avoid sunburn – damage accumulates over time
According to UK health guidance, even short periods of intense sun exposure can increase cancer risk, especially when it leads to burning.
Self-awareness is critical
- Regularly check your skin for changes
- Don’t ignore unusual marks or symptoms
- Seek medical advice early
Conclusion
Skin cancer presents a significant but largely preventable health risk in the UK. With cases continuing to rise, awareness and proactive prevention are more important than ever. For employers, supporting Skin Cancer Awareness Month in May is an opportunity to lead from the front – embedding sun safety into workplace culture, protecting employees, and reducing long-term health risks. By working together, employers and employees can create safer environments, reduce preventable illness, and support a healthier, more resilient workforce.
Further reading
The Macmillan guide to skin cancer with information and support:
https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/skin-cancer
